As the minutes count down to UFC 231, uncertainty stands alongside excitement. For years, Max Holloway has been one of the most dependable fighters in the game. From the start of 2012 until the end of 2017, he fought 18 times, transforming into a powerhouse while capturing the UFC featherweight championship.
But 2018 has so far been a nightmare for Holloway. In March, he was forced to withdraw from a fight due to a leg injury. In April, he agreed to a short-notice fight against Khabib Nurmagomedov, but despite contracting to compete a division higher than normal, Holloway had to scrap the plan after the New York State Athletic Commission doctors disallowed him from continuing what they considered to be a dangerous weight cut.